Claudication from peripheral artery disease (PAD) may mimic or coexist with musculoskeletal conditions and represents an important diagnostic consideration in patients over 50. Physical therapists are optimally positioned to recognize this condition by incorporating a vascular history and physical examination in appropriately selected patients. Recognition of PAD is important both from the standpoint of addressing the ischemic risk to the limb and because PAD associated with high cerebrovascular and cardiovascular risk. Therefore, multi-disciplinary management of patients with PAD is essential. Extensive evidence supports treatment of PAD related claudication with supervised exercise and physical therapists are well-positioned to play an important role in this treatment.
This article takes you through all you need to know to make sure your management of claudication is effective and up-to-date.